The graphics on my computer are distorted...?

[carron420]

I have an HP Pavillion Special Edition dv1000. The graphics are slightly distorted/blurry. I can make them out but they are not sharp or clear. I have tried altering the screen resolution settings but it doesn't help. Any ideas??
Thank you.

[William V]

Depending on the monitor, this can be caused by a number of problems.
First, make sure the cable connecting to the monitor is connected tighly. Remove it and reconnect it--that can reseat the connectors and remove oxidation. In some cases your monitor cable itself might be damaged or simply "cheap". If you aren't using the cable that comes with the system this could be the case. I've seen this problem with cables that are too long. Another cause of fuzzyness is outside interference. That is, anything that exudes a magnetic field (like a telephone, a cell phone or a speaker) can interfere with the monitor.
I diagnose these problems by connecting to another monitor. Borrow one from a friend and see if the known-good monitor works better. If it does you have your answer--the monitor is failing.

With CRT monitors they can be damaged by a fall or rough handling. They also wear out over time.

hth